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Aretha Franklin Wants To Judge America's Singing Talent

DETROIT (CBS Detroit) One of Detroit's favorite singing superstars -- Aretha Franklin -- wants at seat at the table.

Franklin, 70, confirmed to CNN Sunday she wants to become a judge on "American Idol" as current judges Jennifer Lopez and Steven Tyler exit. News came earlier that Franklin had approached producers about joining the show, but her email to CNN was the first confirmation.

Franklin told the news network she's a longtime fan of the show and would like to take a vital role in picking the next "American Idol."

Franklin, a native Detroiter,  is known for one of the most soaring voices in history, with 18 Grammy awards and an array of hits including "Respect" "You Make Me Feel Like a Natural Woman" and "Chain of Fools." Rolling Stone Magazine named her the "greatest female singer of all time."

But does she have what it takes to choose the next superstar? She would have to beat out people nearly half her age, including Mariah Carey and Mary J. Blige, who are also reportedly gunning for the job.

Kelly Clarkston, Carrie Underwood, Clay Aiken, Adam Lambert all got their start on "Idol."

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